Lise's Lens: April 21, 2022
In this edition of Lise's Lens, Lise shares what she has been watching and thinking about in anticipation of Earth Day, in addition to noting her enthusiasm for the ICA's presence at the Venice Biennale and the beauty of having so many religious and cultural events fall at the same time this year.
WHAT I’M READING
- I was very excited to hear about the upcoming ICA's presence and role at the Venice Biennale (this event is described by the Globe as "the art world's version of the Olympics). Even more thrilling is the artist and body of work that was chosen to represent the United States. Simone Leigh will be the first Black woman chosen by the USA!
WHAT I’M LISTENING TO/WATCHING
- With Earth Day coming up tomorrow, I have been watching two different documentaries that showcase the importance of climate action in very different, but equally effective ways. Our Great National Parks, narrated by President Barack Obama, highlights some of the most beautiful places on our planet, making clear just how much we have to lose if we do not act more boldly in slowing climate change. I am also looking forward to watching the online Solving for Zero series (backed by Bill Gates), which offers practical strategies and solutions to fight climate change. I also need to watch The Story of Plastic, which was directed by yesterday’s Earth Day speaker — more on this below!
WHAT I’M THINKING/TALKING ABOUT
- I am thinking about the work of filmmaker and producer Deia Schlosberg, who came to speak to the community yesterday during assembly. Her presentation really helped me reframe the way we think about the problem of plastic when it comes to sustainability and the environment. I also thought her work really exemplified what we do here at CSW — combining different disciplines (in her case documentary film and environmental science) to learn and to grow and to make a difference in this world. Her commitment to elevating unheard voices also really resonated with me and our mission.
- I’ve also been thinking about how this year the month of April brought together myriad important religious and cultural moments to our community. Students shared with me their traditions with family around food, worship, and travel. We are so lucky to have a community that embraces it all! Our arms are wide enough for everyone to share and express these important parts of themselves whether it be celebrating Passover or Easter or fasting daily for Ramadan.
WHAT CAUGHT MY EYE
A picture of our students last Saturday at the Weston Arts and Innovation Center for the Anthropocene art exhibit. I'm so proud of them!
The Cambridge School of Weston is a progressive high school for day and boarding students in grades 9–12 and PG. CSW's mission is to provide a progressive education that emphasizes deep learning, meaningful relationships, and a dynamic program that inspires students to discover who they are and what their contribution is to their school, their community and the world.